News Release
OEDIT
Gov. Jared Polis and the Business Support Division within the Colorado Office of Economic Development and International Trade (OEDIT) recently announced a new certification initiative led by the Minority Business Office (MBO).
Certify Colorado will break down barriers for small business owners across Colorado by helping cover the cost of obtaining nationally recognized certifications which can be key to acquiring government and corporate contracts.
“Small businesses strengthen our economy, create good-paying jobs, and drive innovation. Being eligible for corporate and government contracts will help more small businesses thrive and bring innovative solutions to government and our economy. By breaking down cost barriers we can support small businesses and make government more efficient by harnessing small business innovation,” said Governor Polis.
“Certify Colorado removes one of the biggest barriers small and diverse businesses face when trying to gain the necessary credentials for high-value government and corporate contracts. By offsetting up to $2,000 in certification fees per business, we can help Colorado business owners across the state unlock new growth opportunities,” said OEDIT Executive Director Eve Lieberman.
National and regional certifications can boost a business’ visibility, credibility and eligibility for contracts in both the public and private sectors, including government contracts, supplier diversity programs, and procurement opportunities that prioritize certified small and diverse businesses.
While some certifications can be acquired for free, many require $250 – $5,000 in up front costs, with annual recertification fees based on gross revenue.
These fees can create barriers to entry for many small and diverse businesses, and Certify Colorado will help offset these costs for Colorado-based businesses.
“Small business owners often wear many hats when it comes to running and growing their businesses, getting creative to make the best use of their resources. Certifications offer another tool to increase visibility, partnerships and access to opportunity,” said Azarel Madrigal, Director of the Minority Business Office.
The Colorado Economic Development Commission (EDC) approved a total of $250,000 for Certify Colorado. The program will serve businesses on a first come first served basis by providing up to $2,000 toward certification fees per participating business. Participation completion of all required steps, including:
• Completion of the required Certifications 101 Course.
• A viable business plan with demonstrated strategic commitment to entering or growing in the government/corporate contracting space.
• Availability of program funds and certifier capacity.
Certify Colorado will initially be implemented with support from two participating certifiers, Denver Economic Development & Opportunity (DEDO) and the Women’s Business Enterprise Council – West (WBEC-West).
“Denver Economic Development & Opportunity is honored to partner with the Minority Business Office through their Certify Colorado program, sponsoring certification applications for qualified small businesses. As we seek to create as many opportunities as possible to support small businesses and ease financial barriers, this opportunity through MBO will allow the city to set more ambitious goals on City projects and expand opportunities for small businesses across Denver,” said Adeeb Khan, DEDO Executive Director.
“We are proud to partner with the State of Colorado to invest in the growth and success of women-owned businesses across Colorado. This scholarship fund reflects our shared commitment to expanding access to education, certification, and opportunity—ensuring women entrepreneurs have the resources and support needed to start, scale, and compete in today’s economy,” said WBEC-West President and CEO, Dr. Pamela S. Williamson.
